US20100011871A1 - Pressure sensor device - Google Patents
Pressure sensor device Download PDFInfo
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- US20100011871A1 US20100011871A1 US12/520,641 US52064107A US2010011871A1 US 20100011871 A1 US20100011871 A1 US 20100011871A1 US 52064107 A US52064107 A US 52064107A US 2010011871 A1 US2010011871 A1 US 2010011871A1
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- pressure
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- passage
- compressible element
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Images
Classifications
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- G—PHYSICS
- G01—MEASURING; TESTING
- G01L—MEASURING FORCE, STRESS, TORQUE, WORK, MECHANICAL POWER, MECHANICAL EFFICIENCY, OR FLUID PRESSURE
- G01L9/00—Measuring steady of quasi-steady pressure of fluid or fluent solid material by electric or magnetic pressure-sensitive elements; Transmitting or indicating the displacement of mechanical pressure-sensitive elements, used to measure the steady or quasi-steady pressure of a fluid or fluent solid material, by electric or magnetic means
- G01L9/0041—Transmitting or indicating the displacement of flexible diaphragms
- G01L9/0051—Transmitting or indicating the displacement of flexible diaphragms using variations in ohmic resistance
- G01L9/0052—Transmitting or indicating the displacement of flexible diaphragms using variations in ohmic resistance of piezoresistive elements
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G01—MEASURING; TESTING
- G01L—MEASURING FORCE, STRESS, TORQUE, WORK, MECHANICAL POWER, MECHANICAL EFFICIENCY, OR FLUID PRESSURE
- G01L19/00—Details of, or accessories for, apparatus for measuring steady or quasi-steady pressure of a fluent medium insofar as such details or accessories are not special to particular types of pressure gauges
- G01L19/06—Means for preventing overload or deleterious influence of the measured medium on the measuring device or vice versa
- G01L19/0672—Leakage or rupture protection or detection
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G01—MEASURING; TESTING
- G01L—MEASURING FORCE, STRESS, TORQUE, WORK, MECHANICAL POWER, MECHANICAL EFFICIENCY, OR FLUID PRESSURE
- G01L19/00—Details of, or accessories for, apparatus for measuring steady or quasi-steady pressure of a fluent medium insofar as such details or accessories are not special to particular types of pressure gauges
- G01L19/14—Housings
- G01L19/142—Multiple part housings
- G01L19/143—Two part housings
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G01—MEASURING; TESTING
- G01L—MEASURING FORCE, STRESS, TORQUE, WORK, MECHANICAL POWER, MECHANICAL EFFICIENCY, OR FLUID PRESSURE
- G01L19/00—Details of, or accessories for, apparatus for measuring steady or quasi-steady pressure of a fluent medium insofar as such details or accessories are not special to particular types of pressure gauges
- G01L19/14—Housings
- G01L19/147—Details about the mounting of the sensor to support or covering means
Definitions
- the present invention relates to a pressure-sensor device comprising:
- a pressure-sensitive component having a body, in particular of a monolithic type, defined in which is a blind cavity with a bottom surface and a peripheral surface, said bottom surface belonging to a membrane portion of said body, to said membrane portion there being operatively associated a detection element;
- connection structure having a duct in communication with said cavity, that is designed to receive a fluid a pressure of which is to be detected, said structure comprising:
- the fluid being measured is delivered, via the aforesaid duct, to the cavity of the body of the sensitive component in such a way as to cause bending of the membrane portion.
- the amount of said bending which is a function of the pressure of the fluid, is measured via the detection element, the output signal of which is representative of the pressure value.
- the body of the pressure-sensitive component is usually made of silicon, and the detection element provided on the membrane portion is usually of a piezoresistive type.
- a part of the fluid undergoing measurement of pressure can accumulate in contact with, or inside, delicate components of the sensor device, and in particular the pressure-sensitive component.
- the accumulated fluid can freeze, with a consequent increase in volume, which subjects the aforesaid delicate component or components of the device to mechanical stress, with the risk of causing failure or damage thereof.
- Certain known sensor devices are provided with means for reducing the negative effects of possible dynamic variations of the pressure of the fluid present in the hydraulic circuit to which the device is connected, i.e., variations of the type commonly known as “pressure peaks” or “water hammering”.
- the aforesaid means are embodied by narrowing the sections of passage of the fluid towards the membrane portion of the sensitive component.
- a compensation insert also referred to as “plenum”, made of an elastic or compressible material, the deformation of which is designed to compensate the aforesaid pressure peaks or increases.
- the insert is typically mounted in a position relatively distant from the membrane portion of the body of the sensitive component, on which the fluid to be measured operates.
- This position is chosen in view of the fact that the variations of pressure of a liquid can be usually offset in any point of the hydraulic circuit on which the sensor is mounted; said possible installation at a distance from the sensor typically favours the use of independent inserts or plenum devices of large dimensions.
- the possible increase in volume of the fluid due to freezing is not necessarily compensated for by the deformation or compression of the aforesaid insert.
- a frozen fluid is an element in the solid state, and the forces, or thrusts, or stresses, are at times exerted in a non-uniform way, for example only in some points or only in some directions, which is a condition completely different from that of an expansion or variation of pressure of a fluid, which propagates throughout the hydraulic circuit, thus enabling attenuation by a compensation insert mounted even very distant from the pressure-sensitive component.
- the present invention proposes providing a pressure-sensor device designed to overcome the drawbacks referred to previously, in which the risks of damage due to possible freezing of the fluid undergoing detection of pressure are further reduced.
- a further purpose of the invention is to provide a pressure-sensor device designed to function also at low temperatures with fluids or liquids that are liable to freeze, in particular fluids, solutions or compounds comprising at least in part water.
- a further purpose of the invention is to provide a device of the type referred to that is simple and inexpensive to produce, but with reliable and precise operation.
- FIG. 1 is a side elevation of a pressure-sensor device according to the invention
- FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view according to the line II-II of FIG. 1 ;
- FIG. 3 is a top plan view of the device of FIG. 1 ;
- FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of a part of the device of FIG. 2 , at a larger scale;
- FIG. 5 is a partially sectioned perspective view of the device of FIG. 1 ;
- FIG. 6 is a detail at a larger scale of FIG. 5 ;
- FIG. 7 is a first detail of FIG. 2 , at a larger scale
- FIGS. 8 and 9 are perspective views of an insert of the device of FIG. 2 , in two different orientations;
- FIG. 10 is a second detail of FIG. 2 , at a larger scale
- FIGS. 11 and 12 are exploded views of the device of FIG. 1 , in two different orientations;
- FIGS. 13 and 14 are perspective views of some components of FIGS. 11 and 12 , at a larger scale;
- FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view, similar to that of FIG. 2 , of a first variant of the device according to the invention.
- FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of a part of the device of FIG. 15 , at a larger scale;
- FIG. 17 is a partially sectioned perspective view of the device of FIG. 15 ;
- FIG. 18 is a detail of FIG. 16 , at a larger scale
- FIGS. 19 and 20 are exploded views of the device of FIG. 15 , in two different orientations;
- FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view, similar to that of FIG. 2 , of a second variant of the device according to the invention.
- FIG. 22 is a detail of FIG. 21 , at a larger scale
- FIG. 23 is a partially sectioned perspective view of the device of FIG. 21 , at a larger scale.
- FIGS. 24 , 25 , 26 and 27 are cross-sectional views, similar to that of FIG. 2 , of respective variants of the device according to the invention.
- the sensor device according to the invention is to be used in combination with systems for the control of nitrogen-oxide (No x ) emissions, particularly for vehicles with internal-combustion engines.
- operation of said systems presupposes the use of reagents such as ammoniac in aqueous solution or else urea, the pressure of injection of which is to be controlled with precision, via sensor devices of the type previously referred to.
- the pressure-sensor device forming the subject of the invention, in the structure of which there can be identified two main parts, designated by 2 and 3 : the part 2 basically performs functions of support and hydraulic connection, whilst the part 3 basically performs functions of lid and of electrical connection or connector.
- the bodies of the two parts 2 and 3 are coupled together, preferably in a sealed way, also for forming a casing of internal components of the device 1 .
- the main body of the part 2 is preferably made of a relatively rigid material, such as for example a thermoplastic material or a metal material, and is traversed axially by a cavity or passage designated as a whole by 2 b.
- a connection portion 4 As may be seen also in FIG. 4 , identified in the body 2 a are: a connection portion 4 , an intermediate coupling portion 5 and a terminal portion 6 .
- the connection portion 4 which is generally cylindrical, externally has a seat for a radial sealing means 7 , represented preferably by an O-ring.
- Said portion 4 which forms an inlet of the device, is designed to be connected to a hydraulic circuit (not represented), in which the fluid whose pressure is to be detected is located.
- the intermediate portion 5 comprises a flange-shaped wall, which extends radially towards the outside from the top of the connection portion 4 .
- Rising from the aforesaid flange-shaped wall are an outer wall 5 a and an inner wall 5 b, having an annular configuration and being substantially coaxial with respect to one another.
- the wall 5 a which is higher than the wall 5 b, delimits a cavity or chamber—designated by CH in FIGS. 4 and 13 —located in which is a pressure-sensitive component, designated as a whole by 9 ; preferably, the chamber CH houses completely, or in any case a prevalent part of, the sensitive component 9 .
- the sensitive component 9 has a monolithic body, made, for example, of ceramic, or else plastic material, or else alumina, and is preferably cylindrical in shape.
- a blind axial cavity 11 open on a first end face of the body itself, said cavity being delimited by a bottom surface and a peripheral or circumferential surface, designated, respectively, by 11 a and 11 b only in FIG. 14 .
- a blind axial cavity 11 open on a first end face of the body itself, said cavity being delimited by a bottom surface and a peripheral or circumferential surface, designated, respectively, by 11 a and 11 b only in FIG. 14 .
- 11 c Between the bottom surface 11 a of the cavity 11 and at least part of the second end face of the body of the sensitive component 9 —designated by 11 c only in FIG.
- a membrane portion designated, in the various cross-sectional views, by the reference 9 a, integrated in which is a detection element, represented schematically with a dashed line only in FIGS. 11 and 13 , where it is designated by R.
- the detection element R is made or fixed on the second face 11 c, or on the side of the membrane 9 a, external to the cavity 11 .
- the detection element R can be represented by a preferably thin-film piezo-resistive element or, more in general, by any electrical or electronic component that is able to generate a signal being representative of a deformation or bending of the membrane portion 9 a. From FIG.
- control circuit can be provided or integrated at least in part on the second end face 11 c, preferably on a portion of greater thickness of the monolithic body of the element 9 , and in particular its annular part around the membrane portion 9 a.
- the terminal portion 6 rising from the central region of the flange-shaped wall 5 , in a position substantially coaxial to the walls 5 a and 5 b and to the connection portion 4 , is the aforesaid terminal portion 6 , having a generally cylindrical tubular shape, formed on the outside of which is a shoulder or seat for positioning of a sealing means 10 , represented preferably by an O-ring. Said O-ring 10 is prearranged for forming a radial seal between the outer surface of the terminal portion 6 and the peripheral surface 11 b of the cavity 11 .
- the terminal portion 6 projects within the cavity 11 of the pressure-sensitive component 9 and mounted on its upper part a compensation element is mounted, designated by 12 , having a predefined shape.
- This element 12 is made of a compressible material, so as to be able to offset or compensate possible increases of volume of the fluid undergoing detection, in the case of freezing thereof.
- the body of the compensation element 12 is made of a spongy or foamed material, preferably of an impermeable type with closed-cell, such as for example EPDM or silicone.
- the body of the element 12 can in any case be made in other ways, for example of an elastic material provided with a compressible chamber or internal portion.
- the compressible or compensation element 12 has a generally cylindrical tubular shape, with a central through hole, fitted in which is a terminal projection 14 of the tubular portion 6 .
- the projection 14 is tubular, or is traversed by a respective part of the axial passage 2 b of the body 2 a.
- a respective portion 15 with a minimal passage section of the duct designed to deliver the fluid to the cavity 11 of the sensitive component 9 .
- the upper end of the projection 14 designated by 14 a only in FIG. 7 , is substantially configured as a flange in order to keep the compensation element 12 in the operative position.
- the projection 14 could, however, be absent, and the compensation element 12 could be fixed in another way to the tubular portion 6 , for example glued, welded, or over-moulded.
- the upper surface of the compensation element 12 faces the bottom surface 11 a of the membrane 9 a for a significant part thereof, preferably for the most part or at least over 50% of the entire surface 11 a.
- the distance between the surfaces 12 a and 11 a is preferably comprised between 0 and 5 mm, in particular between 0 and 0.5 mm. In the case of a solution that provides for a minimum distance, for example approximately 0.1 mm, between the surfaces 12 a and 11 a, there is the advantage of having little liquid undergoing freezing, or having a thin layer of liquid in contact with the membrane 9 a, the percentage of expansion of which, following upon freezing, is negligible as compared to the capacity of bending of the membrane itself.
- the compensation element 12 there is preferably envisaged the use of a material of lower hardness, or such as to enable the fluid to penetrate and distribute as a thin film over the entire bottom surface 11 a, by virtue of the elasticity or yielding of the material, and/or prevent at the same time perturbation of the operation or sensitivity of the membrane.
- a material of lower hardness or such as to enable the fluid to penetrate and distribute as a thin film over the entire bottom surface 11 a, by virtue of the elasticity or yielding of the material, and/or prevent at the same time perturbation of the operation or sensitivity of the membrane.
- the peripheral or circumferential surface of the compensation element 12 designated by 12 b only in FIG. 13 —faces the peripheral surface 11 b of the pressure-sensitive component 9 .
- Said surface 12 b is preferably at a distance from the surface 11 b comprised between 0 and 2 mm, in particular between 0 and 0.5 mm.
- the diameter of the compensation element 12 is comprised between 8 and 10 mm; the compensation element 12 can also have a diameter greater than the diameter of the peripheral surface 11 b, in order to enable an installation with interference fit or radial seal between the compensation element 12 and the peripheral surface 11 b.
- at least part of the lower surface of the element 12 gives out into a chamber 30 , described hereinafter (the lower surface of the element 12 is designated by 12 c only in FIG. 14 ).
- the compensation element 12 has at least one outer surface (i.e., different from the cylindrical one that delimits the corresponding central through hole) exposed to the fluid; in the case provided by way of example in the figure, the aforesaid surfaces 12 a, 12 b, 12 c are all at least partially exposed to the fluid.
- the device 1 comprises a second compensation element of a predefined shape, built in a way and having a general function similar to that of the element 12 .
- Said second compensation element, designated by 18 is housed in a part of the passage 2 b of the body 2 a that extends between the portions 4 - 6 (see, for example, FIGS. 4-6 ).
- the upper portion of the element 18 is at least in part fitted in a respective part of the passage 2 b of intermediate diameter, substantially similar to the diameter of the element 18 , whilst the bottom portion of the element 18 is located within a part of the passage 2 b of the body 2 a of larger or maximum diameter.
- the second compensation element 18 has an as a whole cylindrical shape, with an inner cavity 19 aligned axially to the cavity 15 of the projection 14 , so as to define a respective part of the duct that carries the fluid being measured to the cavity 11 of the sensitive component 9 ; preferably, the cavity 19 has a section of passage larger than the axial cavity 15 of the projection 14 .
- the compensation element 18 is kept within the passage 2 b of the body 2 a via a suitable positioning means, represented herein by an insert designated by 16 .
- the insert 16 which is visible in detail in FIGS. 8 and 9 , is constituted by a rigid body, for example made of thermoplastic material, or metallic or mouldable material, with a generally cylindrical shape, having a lower part 16 a that is massive or full, and an upper hollow part 16 b.
- the hollow part 16 b is delimited peripherally by a number of walls or tabs 16 c, which rise from the top of the full part 16 a, where the slits of separation 16 d between the tabs proceed in the same full part in the form of axial grooves, designated by 16 e.
- shaped projections 16 f designed to define both resting surfaces for the compensation element 18 and channels 16 g for passage of the fluid.
- at least two channels 16 g are provided that criss-cross in the central region of the bottom of the hollow part 16 b of the insert 16 .
- the insert 16 is mounted (for example, fitted with interference fit) within the part of the passage 2 b of the body 2 a having a maximum section of passage, and in such a way that housed in its hollow part is the lower part of the compensation element 18 , with the latter resting on the projections 16 f.
- the tabs 16 c are then contained between the outer surface of the element 18 and the inner surface of the corresponding part of passage 2 b of the body 2 a, as may be seen also in FIG. 10 .
- the body of the part 3 for electrical connection, has a hollow lower region, delimited by a bottom wall 20 and a peripheral wall 21 , the end of which is configured for coupling between the walls 5 a and 5 b of the body 2 a of the part 2 .
- a tubular-body part 22 within which there extend terminals 23 for the electrical connection of the device 1 .
- the terminals 23 are mounted in such a way that the respective lower end faces the inside of the cavity of the part 3 in order to be in contact with first contact elements 24 a ( FIG. 13 ) belonging to an electrical circuit designated as a whole by 24 .
- the circuit 24 likewise comprises second contact elements, herein configured as metal pads or bushings 24 b ( FIGS. 5 and 13 ), fitted and/or welded within which are the terminals 9 b of the pressure-sensitive component 9 .
- designated by 25 is a member for supporting the aforesaid circuit 24 , which has pins 25 a designed to bear upon purposely provided perimetral seats (one of which is designated by 9 c in FIG. 14 ) of the sensitive element 9 , in particular for the purpose of providing a polarization or a precise mutual coupling.
- the pins 25 a could have a substantially semicircular section.
- the cavity 11 of the pressure-sensitive component 9 is occupied by the terminal portion 6 , provided at the top of which is the compensation element 12 , which preferably occupies a significant portion of the cavity itself.
- the element 12 is kept in position via the projection 14 , and in particular its flange portion 14 a.
- said projection also defines the terminal portion 15 of the duct for delivery of the fluid, also including the portion 19 defined in the second compensation element 18 .
- the presence of the seal or O-ring 10 delimits, within the cavity 11 , a chamber 30 ( FIGS. 4 , 6 and 7 ), together with the exposed surfaces of the portion 6 , the chamber of which is in fluid communication with the duct 15 , 19 for delivery of the fluid.
- the fluid is represented schematically by the arrows. It should be considered that, in operative conditions, the fluid is undergoing only slight displacement, or it is in practically static conditions (consequently, also the ensuing references as regards the path followed by the fluid have the sole purpose of clarifying how the fluid itself can be in contact with or exert pressure on the membrane 9 a of the pressure-sensitive component). In the condition of normal operation of the device 1 , the fluid penetrates or flows in the passage 2 b of the body 2 a via the inlet defined by the lower end of the passage itself.
- the fluid By means of the axial grooves 16 e formed in the lower part 16 a of the insert 16 , the fluid reaches the slits defined between the tabs 16 c and then penetrates within the hollow part of the insert itself. The fluid can then occupy the channels defined between the projections 16 f and thus reach the cavity 19 of the element 18 . The fluid can in this way occupy also the cavity of the projection 14 and then the chamber 30 ( FIG. 7 ); the pressure of the fluid then acts on the membrane portion 9 a of the body of the sensitive component 9 .
- the pressure of the fluid is not sufficient to cause a significant compression of the compensation elements 12 and 18 , thus enabling at least one further compression for compensation in the case of freezing of the fluid.
- the consequent bending of the membrane portion 9 a causes a corresponding deformation of the detection element R of FIG. 13 , and hence a variation of the resistive characteristics thereof.
- a signal representing the pressure value of the fluid is generated to the terminals 9 b of the element 9 .
- Said signal amplified and/or processed in a way in itself known by suitable electronic components of the circuit 24 , reaches the terminals 23 , which are electrically connected to a wiring (not represented) connected to a suitable control unit, for example an electronic control unit of a vehicle or a system for checking emissions of nitrogen oxides.
- part of the fluid being measured can accumulate within the chamber 30 and within the duct of the fluid through the body 2 a; in conditions of low ambient temperature, said accumulated fluid can freeze and thus increase in volume.
- the fact that the cavity 11 of the sensitive component 9 is occupied to a prevalent extent by the components referred to above has as a consequence that the useful volume in which the fluid can accumulate is reduced.
- the provision of minimum sections of passage determined by the grooves 16 e, and/or the slits 16 d, and/or the channels 16 g ( FIG. 10 ), has the function of determining preferential areas of start of freezing of the fluid within the corresponding duct.
- the aforementioned minimum sections of passage 16 e, 16 d, 16 g basically creating capillary passages—that will tend to form initially a sort of “ice plug” in a position relatively distant from the membrane portion 9 a, but in the immediate vicinity of the second compensation element 18 .
- a similar function is performed, to a certain extent, also by the portion of duct 15 of small section, which is also in the immediate proximity of the compensation element 18 and/or the compensation element 12 .
- the aforesaid ice plugs in the pipes 16 e, 16 d, 16 g, 15 can form in the first steps of freezing of the fluid, contributing to countering any expansion due to the subsequent more extensive freezing of the fluid, in particular of the fluid present in portion of duct of larger section.
- said plugs can constitute a sort of “spontaneous barrier” both to prevent any further inflow of fluid into the areas that risk failure and to counter the thrust in the direction of the membrane 9 a of frozen masses of significant volume.
- freezing of the fluid propagates from the stretch 15 in the direction of the membrane portion 9 a, it will be the element 12 that intervenes, in the sense of compensating for the increase in volume of the limited part of fluid present in the chamber 30 .
- FIGS. 15-20 Illustrated in FIGS. 15-20 is a first alternative embodiment of the device according to the invention.
- the reference numbers of FIGS. 1-14 are used to designate elements that are technically equivalent to the ones already described above.
- the means for positioning the compensation element 12 is represented by a tubular insert made of rigid material, for example thermoplastic or metal material, designated as a whole by 17 .
- the rigid insert 17 has a tubular section 17 a, partially inserted (for example via screwing) in a respective part of the passage 2 b formed in the body 2 a, and in particular a part of passage that traverses the portions 5 and 6 axially. Fitted on the region of the tubular part 17 a that is not inserted in the portion 6 is the compensation element 12 .
- the upper end of the insert 17 is configured for keeping the element 12 or preventing it from sliding out upwards, and is at least partially positioned in a corresponding seat or recess on the upper face of the compensation element 12 .
- the end 17 b of the insert 17 is substantially formed by a series of radial projections (the element 17 could in any case be of a different shape, for example without said projections).
- a respective terminal portion of the duct that carries the fluid to the cavity of the sensitive component 9 .
- said duct portion comprises two stretches, designated by A and B, having a different section of passage and being separated by an intermediate narrowed portion C, having a generally tapered shape.
- the stretch of duct A is preferably configured as capillary passage or duct.
- a washer element 13 is preferably provided, which, together with the shoulder designated by 6 a in FIG. 18 , delimits a seat for the seal or O-ring 10 .
- the device 1 comprises a second compensation element 18 , housed in a respective part of the axial passage 2 b defined in the connection portion 4 of the body 2 a,
- the second compensation element 18 has an as a whole cylindrical shape, with a through cavity 19 aligned axially to the insert 17 so as to define a respective part of the duct that carries the fluid being measured to the chamber 30 .
- the cavity 11 of the component 9 is to a fair extent occupied by the terminal portion 6 , provided at the top of which is the compensation element 12 , kept in position via the insert 17 .
- the insert 17 also defines the terminal stretch of the duct for the fluid, including also the stretch 19 defined in the second compensation element 18 .
- the general operation of the device of FIGS. 15-20 is basically similar to that of the device illustrated in FIGS. 1-14 , both as regards the detection of the pressure value of the fluid and as regards the functions of compensation of possible increases in volume of the fluid due to freezing. It should in any case be pointed out that in this embodiment, and according to a further independently inventive aspect, the provision of just one stretch of capillary duct A has the function of predetermining—in effect—the area of start of freezing of the fluid. In practice then, it is in positions corresponding to the capillary stretch A that the ice plug tends to form initially.
- the freezing of the fluid tends then to propagate or proceed towards the part of the duct B, C having a wider diameter, i.e., the part opposite to the membrane portion 9 a.
- the presence of the second compensation element 18 further reduces the risks of damage to the device 1 , since it enables compensation of the freezing of the fluid also on the opposite side with respect to the pressure-sensitive component.
- FIGS. 21-23 Illustrated in FIGS. 21-23 is a third embodiment of the device according to the invention. Also in said figures, the reference numbers of the previous figures are used to designate elements that are technically equivalent to the ones already described.
- the device 1 comprises just one compensation element 12 within the cavity 11 of the sensitive component 9 .
- the body 2 a has an axial passage 2 b of diameter larger than that of the previous embodiments, within which both a compensation element 12 and a rigid insert, designated by 117 , are inserted.
- the upper end of the terminal portion 6 is formed so as to prevent it from sliding out towards the outside of the compensation element 12 .
- transverse diaphragms 6 b which delimit a plurality of axial passages.
- the insert 117 is fitted from beneath into the body 2 a so that positioned between its top and the diaphragms 6 b is the element 12 .
- the insert 117 has a protruding upper projection 117 a ( FIGS. 22-23 ), traversed axially by a stretch of capillary duct A.
- the element 12 which is basically annular, surrounds said projection 117 a.
- the washer 13 is not envisaged.
- the insert 117 is kept in position via a bottom closing element, designated by 35 , for example screwed or fitted in the stretch of passage 2 b of the body 2 a that extends in the connection portion 4 .
- FIGS. 24-27 are schematic cross-sectional illustrations of further possible embodiments of the invention. Also in said figures, the reference numbers of the previous figures are used to designate elements that are technically equivalent to the ones already described.
- FIG. 24 is conceptually similar to that of FIGS. 15-20 , but with the difference that, in this case, the insert 17 has a top flange portion 17 b that is basically circular and having a reduced diameter, and does not define a stretch of capillary duct, or it comprises only a duct that is substantially equivalent to the aforesaid stretch of duct B.
- the washer 13 is not envisaged in so far as the seat for the seal or O-ring 10 is formed by a groove provided in the portion 6 of the body 2 a.
- the two compensation elements 12 and 18 are configured in a single piece, designated as a whole by 40 .
- an intermediate portion of the piece 40 of restricted diameter, so as to provide a groove in which a corresponding region of the portion 6 of the body 2 a engages.
- the sealing means 10 operate between the face of the body of the sensitive component 9 onto which the cavity 11 opens, preferably a face that is at least in part plane, and the intermediate flange-shaped part 5 of the body 2 a, also this part being provided with a face that is at least in part plane.
- the duct for delivery of the fluid is entirely formed in the piece 40 .
- the piece 40 could be provided with an intermediate part, which connects the two compensation elements 12 and 18 and does not form a stretch of the duct for the fluid, said intermediate part being preferably at least partially within the portion 6 of the body 2 a.
- the single piece 40 can be made separately and subsequently mounted on the body 2 a, exploiting the elasticity of the material used.
- the piece 40 is obtained via moulding or over-moulding of material, preferably of a foamed type. Over-moulding is, for example, obtained directly on a part of the body 2 a or of the casing of the device according to the invention, in particular at least partially inside of the portions 4 , 6 , or else on a corresponding insert.
- the intermediate part of the single piece 40 inside the portion 6 of the body 2 a can for example be made of moulding material, which fills purposely provided channels present in the body 2 a, said channels extending between the areas for housing the two compensation elements 12 and 18 . Said channels are exploited for passage of the moulding material, which subsequently hardens and forms the aforesaid intermediate part.
- the piece 40 could, however, be moulded in another way, also for the purpose of providing corresponding projections or elements for fixing to the body 2 a of the device 1 .
- the body 2 a could advantageously be provided with seats, projections, or channels, designed for passage and/or fixing of the moulding or over-moulding material.
- the body 2 a can be made of a first material, for example a thermoplastic material, and the piece 40 of a second material, for example EPDM or silicone. After obtaining the body 2 a with the first material, this is inserted in a suitable mould, within which the second material that is to form the piece 40 is subsequently injected.
- a first material for example a thermoplastic material
- a second material for example EPDM or silicone
- the mould can comprise, for example, at least one fixed part and at least one movable part, which are able to assume a working or closing position, and an opening position, according to modalities in themselves known.
- the parts have respective impressions shaped for defining as a whole a common cavity within the mould, when they are closed in the working position.
- Said cavity is in part occupied by the body 2 a and is provided for receiving the material that is to form the piece 40 , which as a whole has a shape designed to define, together with the axial passage 2 b of the body 2 a, the shape of said piece 40 , with the corresponding axial duct,
- a possible sequence of moulding in order to obtain the body 2 a with the over-moulded piece 40 could comprise for example the following steps:
- the cavity of the sensitive component 9 is occupied in part by the terminal portion 6 of the body 2 a, on the top of which is positioned or fixed a compensation element 12 , for example via gluing or welding or moulding.
- the compensation element can be kept in position, possibly slightly compressed, between a surface of the terminal portion 6 and at least one surface of the sensitive component 9 .
- a second compensation element 18 which, however, could be absent.
- the duct for the fluid is formed in part by the axial cavity of the compensation elements 12 , 18 and in part by a stretch of the axial passage 2 b of the body 2 a.
- the cavity of the sensitive component is instead prevalently occupied by a compensation element 12 with a thickness or height increased with respect to the previous embodiments.
- Said element 12 is positioned or fixed—for example via gluing—on the top of the portion 6 , which in this case projects only to a minor extent within the aforesaid cavity 11 ; alternatively, the portion 6 could be outside the cavity 11 or even absent.
- the duct for delivering the fluid is formed in part by the axial cavities of the compensation elements 12 and 18 and in part by an intermediate stretch of the axial passage 2 b of the body 2 a.
- the sealing element 10 is mounted in a position similar to the one described with reference to the example of FIG. 25 , i.e., between two substantially plane opposite faces of the sensitive element 9 and of the flange-shaped wall of the portion 5 .
- a compensation element within the cavity of the sensitive component reduces considerably the risks of damage to the corresponding membrane portion and/or to the detection element associated thereto.
- the fact that said cavity is occupied to a substantial extent by the compensation element and/or by portions of the structure that supports the sensitive component reduces the volume allowed for stagnation of fluid subject to possible freezing.
- capillary passages or in any case passages of reduced section, in the fluid duct, when they are envisaged, makes it possible to impose beforehand, with a relative precision, one or more regions in which the fluid will start to freeze, with the possibility of subsequently developing freezing in the parts of duct with wider section, or in a direction opposite to the membrane portion of the sensitive component.
- the compensation element 12 could be prearranged also in order to provide the functions of the sealing element previously designated by 10 .
- the element 12 could comprise at least one deformable peripheral part that performs functions of O-ring, of a diameter such as to be able to interfere decidedly with respect to the peripheral wall 11 b of the pressure-sensitive component 9 and/or with parts of the body or casing of the device 1 and/or corresponding inserts.
- the compensation element or elements could be made of silicone, of a foamed or non-foamed type, or else silicone mixed with air bubbles, for example poured and left to harden in a mould or appropriate seat. Also using said material, the compensation elements can be configured in a single piece, and/or made separately and/or moulded over the body 2 a.
- the inserts provided for the body 2 a for example the insert 17
- the insert 17 can be moulded over the body itself, with modalities that are basically similar to the ones referred to above in relation to the over-moulding of the compensation element 12 .
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Abstract
Description
- The present invention relates to a pressure-sensor device comprising:
- a pressure-sensitive component having a body, in particular of a monolithic type, defined in which is a blind cavity with a bottom surface and a peripheral surface, said bottom surface belonging to a membrane portion of said body, to said membrane portion there being operatively associated a detection element; and
- a connection structure having a duct in communication with said cavity, that is designed to receive a fluid a pressure of which is to be detected, said structure comprising:
-
- a body for supporting the pressure-sensitive component, defining a respective passage; and
- at least one compressible element that is designed to be in contact with said fluid and is configured for compensating possible variations of volume thereof.
- In known devices of the type referred to, the fluid being measured is delivered, via the aforesaid duct, to the cavity of the body of the sensitive component in such a way as to cause bending of the membrane portion. The amount of said bending, which is a function of the pressure of the fluid, is measured via the detection element, the output signal of which is representative of the pressure value. The body of the pressure-sensitive component is usually made of silicon, and the detection element provided on the membrane portion is usually of a piezoresistive type.
- In certain applications, a part of the fluid undergoing measurement of pressure can accumulate in contact with, or inside, delicate components of the sensor device, and in particular the pressure-sensitive component. In the case of low ambient temperature, the accumulated fluid can freeze, with a consequent increase in volume, which subjects the aforesaid delicate component or components of the device to mechanical stress, with the risk of causing failure or damage thereof.
- Certain known sensor devices are provided with means for reducing the negative effects of possible dynamic variations of the pressure of the fluid present in the hydraulic circuit to which the device is connected, i.e., variations of the type commonly known as “pressure peaks” or “water hammering”.
- In some known devices, the aforesaid means are embodied by narrowing the sections of passage of the fluid towards the membrane portion of the sensitive component. In other cases, instead, combined with the sensor device is a compensation insert, also referred to as “plenum”, made of an elastic or compressible material, the deformation of which is designed to compensate the aforesaid pressure peaks or increases. In these latter solutions, the insert is typically mounted in a position relatively distant from the membrane portion of the body of the sensitive component, on which the fluid to be measured operates. This position is chosen in view of the fact that the variations of pressure of a liquid can be usually offset in any point of the hydraulic circuit on which the sensor is mounted; said possible installation at a distance from the sensor typically favours the use of independent inserts or plenum devices of large dimensions. In the case of such a remote or distant installation from the sensor device, the possible increase in volume of the fluid due to freezing is not necessarily compensated for by the deformation or compression of the aforesaid insert. It should be considered in fact that a frozen fluid is an element in the solid state, and the forces, or thrusts, or stresses, are at times exerted in a non-uniform way, for example only in some points or only in some directions, which is a condition completely different from that of an expansion or variation of pressure of a fluid, which propagates throughout the hydraulic circuit, thus enabling attenuation by a compensation insert mounted even very distant from the pressure-sensitive component.
- The present invention proposes providing a pressure-sensor device designed to overcome the drawbacks referred to previously, in which the risks of damage due to possible freezing of the fluid undergoing detection of pressure are further reduced. A further purpose of the invention is to provide a pressure-sensor device designed to function also at low temperatures with fluids or liquids that are liable to freeze, in particular fluids, solutions or compounds comprising at least in part water. A further purpose of the invention is to provide a device of the type referred to that is simple and inexpensive to produce, but with reliable and precise operation.
- The above and other purposes still are achieved, according to the present invention, by a pressure-sensor device having the characteristics specified in the annexed claims. The claims form an integral part of the technical teaching provided in relation to the invention.
- Further purposes, characteristics, and advantages of the present invention will emerge clearly from the ensuing detailed description and from the annexed plates of drawings, which are provided purely by way of explanatory and non-limiting example and in which:
-
FIG. 1 is a side elevation of a pressure-sensor device according to the invention; -
FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view according to the line II-II ofFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 3 is a top plan view of the device ofFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of a part of the device ofFIG. 2 , at a larger scale; -
FIG. 5 is a partially sectioned perspective view of the device ofFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 6 is a detail at a larger scale ofFIG. 5 ; -
FIG. 7 is a first detail ofFIG. 2 , at a larger scale; -
FIGS. 8 and 9 are perspective views of an insert of the device ofFIG. 2 , in two different orientations; -
FIG. 10 is a second detail ofFIG. 2 , at a larger scale; -
FIGS. 11 and 12 are exploded views of the device ofFIG. 1 , in two different orientations; -
FIGS. 13 and 14 are perspective views of some components ofFIGS. 11 and 12 , at a larger scale; -
FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view, similar to that ofFIG. 2 , of a first variant of the device according to the invention; -
FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of a part of the device ofFIG. 15 , at a larger scale; -
FIG. 17 is a partially sectioned perspective view of the device ofFIG. 15 ; -
FIG. 18 is a detail ofFIG. 16 , at a larger scale; -
FIGS. 19 and 20 are exploded views of the device ofFIG. 15 , in two different orientations; -
FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view, similar to that ofFIG. 2 , of a second variant of the device according to the invention; -
FIG. 22 is a detail ofFIG. 21 , at a larger scale; -
FIG. 23 is a partially sectioned perspective view of the device ofFIG. 21 , at a larger scale; and -
FIGS. 24 , 25, 26 and 27 are cross-sectional views, similar to that ofFIG. 2 , of respective variants of the device according to the invention. - By way of non-limiting example, it is assumed here that the sensor device according to the invention is to be used in combination with systems for the control of nitrogen-oxide (Nox) emissions, particularly for vehicles with internal-combustion engines. As may be noted, operation of said systems presupposes the use of reagents such as ammoniac in aqueous solution or else urea, the pressure of injection of which is to be controlled with precision, via sensor devices of the type previously referred to.
- With reference to
FIGS. 1 to 3 , designated as a whole by 1 is the pressure-sensor device forming the subject of the invention, in the structure of which there can be identified two main parts, designated by 2 and 3: thepart 2 basically performs functions of support and hydraulic connection, whilst thepart 3 basically performs functions of lid and of electrical connection or connector. The bodies of the twoparts - The main body of the
part 2, designated by 2 a, is preferably made of a relatively rigid material, such as for example a thermoplastic material or a metal material, and is traversed axially by a cavity or passage designated as a whole by 2 b. As may be seen also inFIG. 4 , identified in thebody 2 a are: aconnection portion 4, anintermediate coupling portion 5 and aterminal portion 6. Theconnection portion 4, which is generally cylindrical, externally has a seat for a radial sealing means 7, represented preferably by an O-ring. Saidportion 4, which forms an inlet of the device, is designed to be connected to a hydraulic circuit (not represented), in which the fluid whose pressure is to be detected is located. Theintermediate portion 5 comprises a flange-shaped wall, which extends radially towards the outside from the top of theconnection portion 4. Rising from the aforesaid flange-shaped wall are anouter wall 5 a and aninner wall 5 b, having an annular configuration and being substantially coaxial with respect to one another. Thewall 5 a, which is higher than thewall 5 b, delimits a cavity or chamber—designated by CH in FIGS. 4 and 13—located in which is a pressure-sensitive component, designated as a whole by 9; preferably, the chamber CH houses completely, or in any case a prevalent part of, thesensitive component 9. - The
sensitive component 9 has a monolithic body, made, for example, of ceramic, or else plastic material, or else alumina, and is preferably cylindrical in shape. With reference toFIGS. 11-14 , defined in the body of theelement 9 is a blind axial cavity 11, open on a first end face of the body itself, said cavity being delimited by a bottom surface and a peripheral or circumferential surface, designated, respectively, by 11 a and 11 b only inFIG. 14 . Between the bottom surface 11 a of the cavity 11 and at least part of the second end face of the body of thesensitive component 9—designated by 11 c only in FIG. 13—there is then defined a membrane portion, designated, in the various cross-sectional views, by thereference 9 a, integrated in which is a detection element, represented schematically with a dashed line only inFIGS. 11 and 13 , where it is designated by R. Preferably, the detection element R is made or fixed on the second face 11 c, or on the side of themembrane 9 a, external to the cavity 11. As per a known technique, the detection element R can be represented by a preferably thin-film piezo-resistive element or, more in general, by any electrical or electronic component that is able to generate a signal being representative of a deformation or bending of themembrane portion 9 a. FromFIG. 13 it may likewise be noted how, from the second end face 11 c of the body of thesensitive component 9, thereproject terminals 9 b, for electrical connection of the detection element R and/or of the corresponding electronic control circuit. In a version (not represented), also said control circuit can be provided or integrated at least in part on the second end face 11 c, preferably on a portion of greater thickness of the monolithic body of theelement 9, and in particular its annular part around themembrane portion 9 a. - With reference once again to
FIG. 4 , rising from the central region of the flange-shapedwall 5, in a position substantially coaxial to thewalls connection portion 4, is theaforesaid terminal portion 6, having a generally cylindrical tubular shape, formed on the outside of which is a shoulder or seat for positioning of a sealing means 10, represented preferably by an O-ring. Said O-ring 10 is prearranged for forming a radial seal between the outer surface of theterminal portion 6 and the peripheral surface 11 b of the cavity 11. - The
terminal portion 6 projects within the cavity 11 of the pressure-sensitive component 9 and mounted on its upper part a compensation element is mounted, designated by 12, having a predefined shape. Thiselement 12 is made of a compressible material, so as to be able to offset or compensate possible increases of volume of the fluid undergoing detection, in the case of freezing thereof. In the embodiment currently deemed to be preferential, the body of thecompensation element 12 is made of a spongy or foamed material, preferably of an impermeable type with closed-cell, such as for example EPDM or silicone. The body of theelement 12 can in any case be made in other ways, for example of an elastic material provided with a compressible chamber or internal portion. - The compressible or
compensation element 12 has a generally cylindrical tubular shape, with a central through hole, fitted in which is aterminal projection 14 of thetubular portion 6. As may be seen, for example, inFIGS. 5-7 , also theprojection 14 is tubular, or is traversed by a respective part of theaxial passage 2 b of thebody 2 a. In particular, defined in theprojection 14 is arespective portion 15 with a minimal passage section of the duct designed to deliver the fluid to the cavity 11 of thesensitive component 9. The upper end of theprojection 14, designated by 14 a only inFIG. 7 , is substantially configured as a flange in order to keep thecompensation element 12 in the operative position. It should be noted that theprojection 14 could, however, be absent, and thecompensation element 12 could be fixed in another way to thetubular portion 6, for example glued, welded, or over-moulded. - The upper surface of the
compensation element 12—designated by 12 a only in FIG. 13—faces the bottom surface 11 a of themembrane 9 a for a significant part thereof, preferably for the most part or at least over 50% of the entire surface 11 a. The distance between thesurfaces 12 a and 11 a is preferably comprised between 0 and 5 mm, in particular between 0 and 0.5 mm. In the case of a solution that provides for a minimum distance, for example approximately 0.1 mm, between thesurfaces 12 a and 11 a, there is the advantage of having little liquid undergoing freezing, or having a thin layer of liquid in contact with themembrane 9 a, the percentage of expansion of which, following upon freezing, is negligible as compared to the capacity of bending of the membrane itself. In the case of a solution that provides, instead, for a contact between thesurfaces 12 a and 11 a, for thecompensation element 12 there is preferably envisaged the use of a material of lower hardness, or such as to enable the fluid to penetrate and distribute as a thin film over the entire bottom surface 11 a, by virtue of the elasticity or yielding of the material, and/or prevent at the same time perturbation of the operation or sensitivity of the membrane. Preferably, also the peripheral or circumferential surface of thecompensation element 12—designated by 12 b only in FIG. 13—faces the peripheral surface 11 b of the pressure-sensitive component 9. Saidsurface 12 b is preferably at a distance from the surface 11 b comprised between 0 and 2 mm, in particular between 0 and 0.5 mm. Preferably, the diameter of thecompensation element 12 is comprised between 8 and 10 mm; thecompensation element 12 can also have a diameter greater than the diameter of the peripheral surface 11 b, in order to enable an installation with interference fit or radial seal between thecompensation element 12 and the peripheral surface 11 b. As may be seen inFIG. 4 , at least part of the lower surface of theelement 12 gives out into achamber 30, described hereinafter (the lower surface of theelement 12 is designated by 12 c only inFIG. 14 ). In an operative configuration deemed preferable, thecompensation element 12 has at least one outer surface (i.e., different from the cylindrical one that delimits the corresponding central through hole) exposed to the fluid; in the case provided by way of example in the figure, theaforesaid surfaces - Preferably, the device 1 comprises a second compensation element of a predefined shape, built in a way and having a general function similar to that of the
element 12. Said second compensation element, designated by 18, is housed in a part of thepassage 2 b of thebody 2 a that extends between the portions 4-6 (see, for example,FIGS. 4-6 ). In particular, the upper portion of theelement 18 is at least in part fitted in a respective part of thepassage 2 b of intermediate diameter, substantially similar to the diameter of theelement 18, whilst the bottom portion of theelement 18 is located within a part of thepassage 2 b of thebody 2 a of larger or maximum diameter. - The
second compensation element 18 has an as a whole cylindrical shape, with aninner cavity 19 aligned axially to thecavity 15 of theprojection 14, so as to define a respective part of the duct that carries the fluid being measured to the cavity 11 of thesensitive component 9; preferably, thecavity 19 has a section of passage larger than theaxial cavity 15 of theprojection 14. - The
compensation element 18 is kept within thepassage 2 b of thebody 2 a via a suitable positioning means, represented herein by an insert designated by 16. Theinsert 16, which is visible in detail inFIGS. 8 and 9 , is constituted by a rigid body, for example made of thermoplastic material, or metallic or mouldable material, with a generally cylindrical shape, having alower part 16 a that is massive or full, and an upperhollow part 16 b. Thehollow part 16 b is delimited peripherally by a number of walls ortabs 16 c, which rise from the top of thefull part 16 a, where the slits of separation 16 d between the tabs proceed in the same full part in the form of axial grooves, designated by 16 e. As may be noted fromFIG. 9 , on the bottom of thehollow part 16 b, or on the top of thefull part 16 a, there are provided shapedprojections 16 f, designed to define both resting surfaces for thecompensation element 18 and channels 16 g for passage of the fluid. In the case exemplified, at least two channels 16 g are provided that criss-cross in the central region of the bottom of thehollow part 16 b of theinsert 16. - As may be seen, for example, in
FIGS. 4 and 6 , theinsert 16 is mounted (for example, fitted with interference fit) within the part of thepassage 2 b of thebody 2 a having a maximum section of passage, and in such a way that housed in its hollow part is the lower part of thecompensation element 18, with the latter resting on theprojections 16 f. Thetabs 16 c are then contained between the outer surface of theelement 18 and the inner surface of the corresponding part ofpassage 2 b of thebody 2 a, as may be seen also inFIG. 10 . - As may be seen in
FIGS. 1 and 2 , the body of thepart 3, for electrical connection, has a hollow lower region, delimited by abottom wall 20 and aperipheral wall 21, the end of which is configured for coupling between thewalls body 2 a of thepart 2. - Rising from the
bottom wall 20 is a tubular-body part 22, within which there extendterminals 23 for the electrical connection of the device 1. In the non-limiting example, theterminals 23 are mounted in such a way that the respective lower end faces the inside of the cavity of thepart 3 in order to be in contact withfirst contact elements 24 a (FIG. 13 ) belonging to an electrical circuit designated as a whole by 24. Thecircuit 24 likewise comprises second contact elements, herein configured as metal pads orbushings 24 b (FIGS. 5 and 13 ), fitted and/or welded within which are theterminals 9 b of the pressure-sensitive component 9. - Once again in FIGS. 3 and 11-14, designated by 25 is a member for supporting the
aforesaid circuit 24, which has pins 25 a designed to bear upon purposely provided perimetral seats (one of which is designated by 9 c inFIG. 14 ) of thesensitive element 9, in particular for the purpose of providing a polarization or a precise mutual coupling. Thepins 25 a could have a substantially semicircular section. - In the assembled configuration of the device, as may be seen, for example, in
FIG. 7 , the cavity 11 of the pressure-sensitive component 9 is occupied by theterminal portion 6, provided at the top of which is thecompensation element 12, which preferably occupies a significant portion of the cavity itself. As has been said, theelement 12 is kept in position via theprojection 14, and in particular itsflange portion 14 a. As has been said, said projection also defines theterminal portion 15 of the duct for delivery of the fluid, also including theportion 19 defined in thesecond compensation element 18. The presence of the seal or O-ring 10 delimits, within the cavity 11, a chamber 30 (FIGS. 4 , 6 and 7), together with the exposed surfaces of theportion 6, the chamber of which is in fluid communication with theduct - In
FIG. 10 , the fluid is represented schematically by the arrows. It should be considered that, in operative conditions, the fluid is undergoing only slight displacement, or it is in practically static conditions (consequently, also the ensuing references as regards the path followed by the fluid have the sole purpose of clarifying how the fluid itself can be in contact with or exert pressure on themembrane 9 a of the pressure-sensitive component). In the condition of normal operation of the device 1, the fluid penetrates or flows in thepassage 2 b of thebody 2 a via the inlet defined by the lower end of the passage itself. By means of theaxial grooves 16 e formed in thelower part 16 a of theinsert 16, the fluid reaches the slits defined between thetabs 16 c and then penetrates within the hollow part of the insert itself. The fluid can then occupy the channels defined between theprojections 16 f and thus reach thecavity 19 of theelement 18. The fluid can in this way occupy also the cavity of theprojection 14 and then the chamber 30 (FIG. 7 ); the pressure of the fluid then acts on themembrane portion 9 a of the body of thesensitive component 9. Preferably, in conditions of normal operation of the fluid system, the pressure of the fluid is not sufficient to cause a significant compression of thecompensation elements - The consequent bending of the
membrane portion 9 a causes a corresponding deformation of the detection element R ofFIG. 13 , and hence a variation of the resistive characteristics thereof. In this way, a signal representing the pressure value of the fluid is generated to theterminals 9 b of theelement 9. Said signal, amplified and/or processed in a way in itself known by suitable electronic components of thecircuit 24, reaches theterminals 23, which are electrically connected to a wiring (not represented) connected to a suitable control unit, for example an electronic control unit of a vehicle or a system for checking emissions of nitrogen oxides. - In particular circumstances, part of the fluid being measured can accumulate within the
chamber 30 and within the duct of the fluid through thebody 2 a; in conditions of low ambient temperature, said accumulated fluid can freeze and thus increase in volume. The fact that the cavity 11 of thesensitive component 9 is occupied to a prevalent extent by the components referred to above has as a consequence that the useful volume in which the fluid can accumulate is reduced. The fact, moreover, that contained in said cavity 11 is practically the entire body of thecompensation element 12 enables reduction to the minimum of the risks of stressing on themembrane portion 9 a, precisely because the space—i.e., thechamber 30—in which the fluid can accumulate in the proximity of themembrane portion 9 a is delimited to a substantial extent by surfaces of thecompensation element 12, which can be compressed by the thrust of the fluid, which by freezing increases in volume. - According to a preferential characteristic, the provision of minimum sections of passage, determined by the
grooves 16 e, and/or the slits 16 d, and/or the channels 16 g (FIG. 10 ), has the function of determining preferential areas of start of freezing of the fluid within the corresponding duct. In practice, then, is in positions corresponding to the aforementioned minimum sections ofpassage 16 e, 16 d, 16 g—basically creating capillary passages—that will tend to form initially a sort of “ice plug” in a position relatively distant from themembrane portion 9 a, but in the immediate vicinity of thesecond compensation element 18. A similar function is performed, to a certain extent, also by the portion ofduct 15 of small section, which is also in the immediate proximity of thecompensation element 18 and/or thecompensation element 12. - The aforesaid ice plugs in the
pipes membrane 9 a of frozen masses of significant volume. In the case where freezing of the fluid propagates from thestretch 15 in the direction of themembrane portion 9 a, it will be theelement 12 that intervenes, in the sense of compensating for the increase in volume of the limited part of fluid present in thechamber 30. - Illustrated in
FIGS. 15-20 is a first alternative embodiment of the device according to the invention. In said figures, the reference numbers ofFIGS. 1-14 are used to designate elements that are technically equivalent to the ones already described above. - In this embodiment, the means for positioning the
compensation element 12 is represented by a tubular insert made of rigid material, for example thermoplastic or metal material, designated as a whole by 17. As may be seen in FIGS. 16 and 19-20, therigid insert 17 has atubular section 17 a, partially inserted (for example via screwing) in a respective part of thepassage 2 b formed in thebody 2 a, and in particular a part of passage that traverses theportions tubular part 17 a that is not inserted in theportion 6 is thecompensation element 12. The upper end of theinsert 17, designated by 17 b, is configured for keeping theelement 12 or preventing it from sliding out upwards, and is at least partially positioned in a corresponding seat or recess on the upper face of thecompensation element 12. As may be seen inFIGS. 19-20 , theend 17 b of theinsert 17 is substantially formed by a series of radial projections (theelement 17 could in any case be of a different shape, for example without said projections). - As may be noted once again in
FIGS. 16 and 18 , defined in theinsert 17 is a respective terminal portion of the duct that carries the fluid to the cavity of thesensitive component 9. In the case exemplified, said duct portion comprises two stretches, designated by A and B, having a different section of passage and being separated by an intermediate narrowed portion C, having a generally tapered shape. The stretch of duct A is preferably configured as capillary passage or duct. It should be noted that between theterminal portion 6 and thecompensation element 12 awasher element 13 is preferably provided, which, together with the shoulder designated by 6 a inFIG. 18 , delimits a seat for the seal or O-ring 10. - Also in this embodiment, the device 1 comprises a
second compensation element 18, housed in a respective part of theaxial passage 2 b defined in theconnection portion 4 of thebody 2 a, Thesecond compensation element 18 has an as a whole cylindrical shape, with a throughcavity 19 aligned axially to theinsert 17 so as to define a respective part of the duct that carries the fluid being measured to thechamber 30. - In the assembled configuration of the device, as may be seen for example in
FIG. 18 , the cavity 11 of thecomponent 9 is to a fair extent occupied by theterminal portion 6, provided at the top of which is thecompensation element 12, kept in position via theinsert 17. As has been said, theinsert 17 also defines the terminal stretch of the duct for the fluid, including also thestretch 19 defined in thesecond compensation element 18. - The general operation of the device of
FIGS. 15-20 is basically similar to that of the device illustrated inFIGS. 1-14 , both as regards the detection of the pressure value of the fluid and as regards the functions of compensation of possible increases in volume of the fluid due to freezing. It should in any case be pointed out that in this embodiment, and according to a further independently inventive aspect, the provision of just one stretch of capillary duct A has the function of predetermining—in effect—the area of start of freezing of the fluid. In practice then, it is in positions corresponding to the capillary stretch A that the ice plug tends to form initially. - The freezing of the fluid tends then to propagate or proceed towards the part of the duct B, C having a wider diameter, i.e., the part opposite to the
membrane portion 9 a. The presence of thesecond compensation element 18 further reduces the risks of damage to the device 1, since it enables compensation of the freezing of the fluid also on the opposite side with respect to the pressure-sensitive component. - Illustrated in
FIGS. 21-23 is a third embodiment of the device according to the invention. Also in said figures, the reference numbers of the previous figures are used to designate elements that are technically equivalent to the ones already described. - In the embodiment of the invention illustrated in
FIGS. 21-23 , the device 1 comprises just onecompensation element 12 within the cavity 11 of thesensitive component 9. In this embodiment, thebody 2 a has anaxial passage 2 b of diameter larger than that of the previous embodiments, within which both acompensation element 12 and a rigid insert, designated by 117, are inserted. - The upper end of the
terminal portion 6 is formed so as to prevent it from sliding out towards the outside of thecompensation element 12. Provided for said purpose in the example ofFIG. 23 aretransverse diaphragms 6 b, which delimit a plurality of axial passages. Theinsert 117 is fitted from beneath into thebody 2 a so that positioned between its top and thediaphragms 6 b is theelement 12. - In this embodiment, moreover,, the
insert 117 has a protrudingupper projection 117 a (FIGS. 22-23 ), traversed axially by a stretch of capillary duct A. Theelement 12, which is basically annular, surrounds saidprojection 117 a. In the solution under examination, thewasher 13 is not envisaged. In this embodiment, moreover, theinsert 117 is kept in position via a bottom closing element, designated by 35, for example screwed or fitted in the stretch ofpassage 2 b of thebody 2 a that extends in theconnection portion 4. - Operation of the device according to the third embodiment is similar to that of the second embodiment; as has been said, however, in the case represented, the device does not comprise the
compensation element 18. -
FIGS. 24-27 are schematic cross-sectional illustrations of further possible embodiments of the invention. Also in said figures, the reference numbers of the previous figures are used to designate elements that are technically equivalent to the ones already described. - The fourth embodiment of
FIG. 24 is conceptually similar to that ofFIGS. 15-20 , but with the difference that, in this case, theinsert 17 has atop flange portion 17 b that is basically circular and having a reduced diameter, and does not define a stretch of capillary duct, or it comprises only a duct that is substantially equivalent to the aforesaid stretch of duct B. In this embodiment, moreover, thewasher 13 is not envisaged in so far as the seat for the seal or O-ring 10 is formed by a groove provided in theportion 6 of thebody 2 a. - In the case of the fifth embodiment of
FIG. 25 , the twocompensation elements elements piece 40, of restricted diameter, so as to provide a groove in which a corresponding region of theportion 6 of thebody 2 a engages. In this embodiment, moreover, the sealing means 10 operate between the face of the body of thesensitive component 9 onto which the cavity 11 opens, preferably a face that is at least in part plane, and the intermediate flange-shapedpart 5 of thebody 2 a, also this part being provided with a face that is at least in part plane. - The duct for delivery of the fluid is entirely formed in the
piece 40. Alternatively, thepiece 40 could be provided with an intermediate part, which connects the twocompensation elements portion 6 of thebody 2 a. - The
single piece 40 can be made separately and subsequently mounted on thebody 2 a, exploiting the elasticity of the material used. In a particularly advantageous embodiment, thepiece 40 is obtained via moulding or over-moulding of material, preferably of a foamed type. Over-moulding is, for example, obtained directly on a part of thebody 2 a or of the casing of the device according to the invention, in particular at least partially inside of theportions - The intermediate part of the
single piece 40 inside theportion 6 of thebody 2 a can for example be made of moulding material, which fills purposely provided channels present in thebody 2 a, said channels extending between the areas for housing the twocompensation elements piece 40 could, however, be moulded in another way, also for the purpose of providing corresponding projections or elements for fixing to thebody 2 a of the device 1. For this purpose, thebody 2 a could advantageously be provided with seats, projections, or channels, designed for passage and/or fixing of the moulding or over-moulding material. - In general terms, the
body 2 a can be made of a first material, for example a thermoplastic material, and thepiece 40 of a second material, for example EPDM or silicone. After obtaining thebody 2 a with the first material, this is inserted in a suitable mould, within which the second material that is to form thepiece 40 is subsequently injected. - The mould can comprise, for example, at least one fixed part and at least one movable part, which are able to assume a working or closing position, and an opening position, according to modalities in themselves known. According to known techniques, the parts have respective impressions shaped for defining as a whole a common cavity within the mould, when they are closed in the working position. Said cavity is in part occupied by the
body 2 a and is provided for receiving the material that is to form thepiece 40, which as a whole has a shape designed to define, together with theaxial passage 2 b of thebody 2 a, the shape of saidpiece 40, with the corresponding axial duct, A possible sequence of moulding in order to obtain thebody 2 a with theover-moulded piece 40 could comprise for example the following steps: - i) insertion of the
body 2 a within a respective first part of mould, for example fixed; - ii) closing of the second part or parts of mould, for example movable, in order to delimit the aforesaid cavity;
- iii) introduction of the material that is to form the
piece 40 in an injection duct of the mould, which is in direct communication with the cavity; - iv) filling of the cavity and subsequent pause, in order to allow cooling and consequent solidification of the material that is to form the
piece 40; - vi) opening of the mould and extraction of the semi-finished product thus obtained, i.e., of the
body 2 a includingpiece 40. - Obviously, even just one of the
elements body 2 a. - In the sixth embodiment (represented in
FIG. 26 ), the cavity of thesensitive component 9 is occupied in part by theterminal portion 6 of thebody 2 a, on the top of which is positioned or fixed acompensation element 12, for example via gluing or welding or moulding. In the case of a simple positioning, the compensation element can be kept in position, possibly slightly compressed, between a surface of theterminal portion 6 and at least one surface of thesensitive component 9. Also envisaged in the sixth embodiment is the use of asecond compensation element 18, which, however, could be absent. In this embodiment, the duct for the fluid is formed in part by the axial cavity of thecompensation elements axial passage 2 b of thebody 2 a. - Finally, in the seventh embodiment, referred to in
FIG. 27 , the cavity of the sensitive component is instead prevalently occupied by acompensation element 12 with a thickness or height increased with respect to the previous embodiments. Saidelement 12 is positioned or fixed—for example via gluing—on the top of theportion 6, which in this case projects only to a minor extent within the aforesaid cavity 11; alternatively, theportion 6 could be outside the cavity 11 or even absent. Also in this embodiment, the duct for delivering the fluid is formed in part by the axial cavities of thecompensation elements axial passage 2 b of thebody 2 a. In this embodiment, the sealingelement 10 is mounted in a position similar to the one described with reference to the example ofFIG. 25 , i.e., between two substantially plane opposite faces of thesensitive element 9 and of the flange-shaped wall of theportion 5. - Practical tests conducted by the Applicant have enabled ascertainment of the fact that, as compared to the prior art, the sensor device forming the subject of the invention is decidedly less affected by risks of damage due to freezing of the fluid, whilst at the same time guaranteeing the necessary precision of measurement of pressure.
- The presence of a compensation element within the cavity of the sensitive component reduces considerably the risks of damage to the corresponding membrane portion and/or to the detection element associated thereto. The fact that said cavity is occupied to a substantial extent by the compensation element and/or by portions of the structure that supports the sensitive component reduces the volume allowed for stagnation of fluid subject to possible freezing.
- The presence of two compensation elements, in the case where both are envisaged, enables compensation to an increased extent of the possible freezing of the fluid in distinct regions of the device.
- The presence of capillary passages, or in any case passages of reduced section, in the fluid duct, when they are envisaged, makes it possible to impose beforehand, with a relative precision, one or more regions in which the fluid will start to freeze, with the possibility of subsequently developing freezing in the parts of duct with wider section, or in a direction opposite to the membrane portion of the sensitive component.
- The characteristics of the various embodiments described, also at the level of single characteristics, can be combined with one another in order to create devices that may even be different from the ones described and/or illustrated herein by way of non-limiting example.
- It is clear that numerous variations may be made by a person skilled in the art to the device described by way of example herein, without thereby departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the annexed claims.
- The
compensation element 12 could be prearranged also in order to provide the functions of the sealing element previously designated by 10. In such a perspective, for example, theelement 12 could comprise at least one deformable peripheral part that performs functions of O-ring, of a diameter such as to be able to interfere decidedly with respect to the peripheral wall 11 b of the pressure-sensitive component 9 and/or with parts of the body or casing of the device 1 and/or corresponding inserts. - As mentioned previously, the compensation element or elements could be made of silicone, of a foamed or non-foamed type, or else silicone mixed with air bubbles, for example poured and left to harden in a mould or appropriate seat. Also using said material, the compensation elements can be configured in a single piece, and/or made separately and/or moulded over the
body 2 a. - Also the inserts provided for the
body 2 a, for example theinsert 17, can be moulded over the body itself, with modalities that are basically similar to the ones referred to above in relation to the over-moulding of thecompensation element 12.
Claims (21)
Applications Claiming Priority (4)
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ITTO2006A0906 | 2006-12-20 | ||
IT000906A ITTO20060906A1 (en) | 2006-12-20 | 2006-12-20 | PRESSURE SENSOR DEVICE |
ITTO2006A000906 | 2006-12-20 | ||
PCT/IB2007/004154 WO2008078184A2 (en) | 2006-12-20 | 2007-12-18 | Pressure sensor device |
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PCT/IB2007/004154 A-371-Of-International WO2008078184A2 (en) | 2006-12-20 | 2007-12-18 | Pressure sensor device |
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US20150343575A1 (en) * | 2014-01-31 | 2015-12-03 | Dunan Sensing Llc | Methods for fabricating apparatus having a hermetic seal |
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US9291514B2 (en) | 2010-12-27 | 2016-03-22 | Epcos Ag | Pressure sensor having a compressible element |
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US8365607B2 (en) * | 2011-06-30 | 2013-02-05 | Sensata Technologies, Inc. | Anti-slip grooves in a crimped pressure sensor assembly |
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US20140345389A1 (en) * | 2013-05-24 | 2014-11-27 | Yong C. Kim | Sensor water freeze protector |
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US20150346002A1 (en) * | 2014-01-31 | 2015-12-03 | Dunan Sensing Llc | Methods for fabricating apparatus having a hermetic seal |
US20150343575A1 (en) * | 2014-01-31 | 2015-12-03 | Dunan Sensing Llc | Methods for fabricating apparatus having a hermetic seal |
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